Bernard Allen
Question:613 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children when he proposes to introduce a new five year plan for the health service. [1405/01]
Written Answers. - Health Service Plan.
I propose to introduce a new health strategy this year which will build on Shaping a Healthier Future (1994) and provide a blueprint for the strategic development of the health services over the next five to ten years.
Preliminary work has already begun in my Department on the development of the new strategy, including putting in place mechanisms for carrying out an extensive consultation process involving relevant stake holders within and around the health services as well as the National Partnership Forum and local partnership structures.